Project to uncover key drivers of profitability

Modelling beef from dairy enterprise provides insights

This project is undertaking a detailed assessment of how integrating a beef from dairy enterprise influences the overall profitability and performance of seasonal dairy systems. By modelling the physical and financial interactions between the dairy herd and a complementary beef from dairy pathway, the project aims to identify the key drivers of cost, value and resource use. This includes evaluating impacts on milk production, labour, feed demand, land utilisation and broader environmental, social and governance considerations. Insights generated will support producers in understanding the conditions under which beef from dairy integration can enhance both profitability and long term sustainability.

Evidence-based guidance

Progress to date includes securing participation from the pilot dairy business, and commencing contracting with consultant, who will lead the whole farm modelling and analysis. The project is advancing as planned and is scheduled for completion in October 2026. Its findings will provide evidence-based guidance for producers, advisors and industry stakeholders considering beef from dairy integration within pasture based, seasonal dairy systems and inform on research gaps.

Mixed herd calves feeding grain at a feed trough on the Moon farm at Yanakie, Gippsland. Image: Dairy Australia

July 2026

The project has reached an important milestone, with the preliminary report received from the consultant following a farm visit in April 2026. The report includes initial data collection findings and the development of physical and financial models for a seasonal dairy enterprise, a typical Tasmanian beef weaner production system, and a model exploring the transition to a dairy-beef production enterprise.

A further farm visit is scheduled for July 2026 to support refinement of the models, sensitivity testing and additional scenario analysis. This next phase of work will also focus on integrating the dairy and dairy-beef enterprise models and developing generic industry equivalents that can be used as a national resource.

The project remains on track for completion in October 2026, with the final analysis expected to identify the key drivers of profitability and provide practical guidance for producers and advisors considering beef from dairy integration within seasonal dairy systems.